Influenza

Todd Rundgren's song 'Influenza' delves into the complex emotions and psychological turmoil that come with falling under the spell of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is acutely aware of the changes happening within themselves, yet feels powerless to resist them. Rundgren uses the metaphor of 'influenza' to describe the overwhelming and almost infectious nature of these feelings, suggesting that love can be as consuming and uncontrollable as a virus.

The song's protagonist acknowledges the presence of doubt and suspicion in the back of their mind, indicating an internal struggle between intuition and the irresistible pull of their emotions. Despite recognizing the potential dangers and the pressure that comes with these feelings, they find themselves unable to resist the allure. This internal conflict is further emphasized by the recurring theme of losing control—whether it's their will, mind, or heart—under the influence of this 'strange influenza.'

Rundgren's lyrics also touch on the paradoxical nature of love, where pain and pleasure become intertwined. The protagonist's heart tells them to stop and resist, yet simultaneously suggests that the pain is a form of pleasure. This duality captures the essence of being in love, where rational thought often takes a backseat to emotional impulses. The song ultimately portrays love as a powerful force that can dominate and control, leaving the individual in a state of both enchantment and vulnerability.